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Wenger admits Arsenal need to make January signings

Arsene Wenger: Manager is without a host of Arsenal stars

Arsene Wenger admits Arsenal could bring in reinforcements in January with a number of the club’s stars out injured.

Arsenal were the only club in Europe’s top five leagues not to sign an outfield player in the summer, with goalkeeper Petr Cech the only recruit.

However, Santi Cazorla, Jack Wilshere, Francis Coquelin, Mikel Arteta, Danny Welbeck and Tomas Rosicky are all currently on the sidelines, meaning Wenger’s hand is likely to be forced in January, although the Frenchman concedes it may depend on other club’s activities.

“We are open minded and not the only ones that can decide on the speed of transfers,” he said.

“We have to adapt to availabilities but we are open to do something because we are short.”

Despite the injuries, Arsenal are well place for a title challenge, currently sitting second, two points behind surprise leaders Leicester City.

The Gunners face a huge clash on Monday night when they host third place Manchester City, but Wenger has revealed his side could be boosted by the return of Chilean star Alexis Sanchez, who hasn’t played since the 1-1 draw with Norwich in November.

“A slight chance for Sanchez to be in the game. He is running,” he said.

Meanwhile, Wenger says he does not believe reigning champions Chelsea are in a relegation battle, despite currently finding themselves only one point above the drop zone.

“No, because of the quality of their team. If you ask me objectively I say no chance. They are going through a difficult spell but they are not in a relegation battle,” he added.